Sons of the West mark 10 years

A PROGRAM with a focus on men’s physical and mental health had delivered a wealth of outcomes for the Ballarat region in the past decade, a participant along with its coordinator said.

The Western Bulldogs’ Sons of the West initiative is celebrating 10 years since it began in the area and will restart for 2026 next month.

Since 2016, the program had provided mental, social and physical health education activities for 469 men.

Sons of the West has been aligned with a range of state and local health priorities.

During a 10-week period, participants work with experts such as personal trainers and health experts to improve their welfare.

Joel Ballesty, a participant in the program, said that Sons of the West represented “community, commitment and opportunity”.

“Regardless of how or in what form, this program allows people to come together in the pursuit of self-betterment,” he said.

“To improve our eating habits, fitness goals, or learn about resources that aid our physical and mental wellbeing.”

Gabrielle Hutchins, the club’s Ballarat and community programs coordinator, said Sons of the West’s longevity demonstrated its effectiveness.

“Having Sons of the West running in Ballarat for so many years is a testament to the program’s ongoing relevance, impact, and connection with the local community,” she said.

“The program’s longevity also allows us to respond to emerging health needs, refine our approach based on participant feedback, and continue breaking down barriers to access.

“Ultimately, it shows that the program is not just surviving in Ballarat, it’s thriving, growing, and becoming a valued part of the community’s health and wellbeing landscape.”

Ms Hutchins said the program had delivered positive results for Ballarat.

“Each year, participants report meaningful improvements in their physical health,” the program organiser said.

“Many men also describe significant benefits to their mental health, including reduced social isolation, improved confidence, and a stronger sense of purpose.”

She said the consistency of the initiative had created not only a sense of reliability that encouraged participant investment, but “a ripple effect” where information and results from sessions were shared with the wider community.

Sons of the West will next run at Wendouree Neighbourhood Centre from Tuesday 21 April and Phoenix P-12 Community College on Wednesday 22 April.

Registrations for the free program can be made at westernbulldogscommunityfoundation.org.au/son-of-west